The much-touted project of Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan (SSA) of Andhra Pradesh, 'Badi Runam Theerchukundam', is progressing at a snail's pace due to lack of awareness among public. The SSA launched the programme in 2016 with an intention to encourage individuals and old students of government schools to come forward and donate for the development of their school.
As on date, the SSA was able to collect only around 70 lakh from donors. Officials state that the financial funding for the scheme is quite low compared to donation of materials for schools costing 69.6 crore. There are 45,000 government schools in the State and officials hope more awareness will fetch more donation for the development of government schools.
Though the officials are working closely with district coordination teams for creating awareness among public, not many are aware of the initiative. The officials are actively working on social media platforms to create awareness and seeking donations from non-resident Telugus (NRTs).
Speaking to Express, G Srinivas, State Project Director of SSA, says, "It is indeed a great opportunity for the people who are in good positions after studying in government schools to develop their schools for the future generations. This is the starting point of development, as these schools would be transformed according to the wishes of the donors. We are conducting various awareness programmes across the State and many people are responding in positively. NRTs are also coming forward and offering donations. We are also giving income tax exemption under 80C for all the donations."
Apart from the donations to the schools, people have been asked to write letters and spread inspirational message among students. As of now, hundreds of letters have been sent to various schools by former students. Officials and students are also writing to the old students urging them to come forward and take part in the initiative.Under the scheme, the donors can specify what the donation is meant for. The names of the persons who donated the amount or material will be posted on the SSA website with details of expenditure.
"The programme is a really good one as it provides a great opportunity for the people who wanted to develop their old school as per their dreams. Many people might have a dream to establish a school for the poor with best facilities, but they might find it hard in achieving it alone. With this initiative, they can donate to the school and develop them as per their wish. We are expecting good development in the schools with best infrastructure, libraries and many other things," said N Bhaskar Rao, principal of a government school.
